The Nigerian Army has allayed the fears of residents in the South-West, over the flag-off of “Operation Crocodile Smile” exercise, saying the operation is to ensure safety.

The Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier-General James Ataguba stated this on Thursday, during the decoration of two officers of the Brigade, Ojo Adelegan and Samson Oladunjoye, who were promoted to the ranks of major.

“The operation we had recently in Akoko area where kidnappers’ hideouts were crushed had brought peace to this state. The operation was a warning to the criminals and I think they have yielded to the warning.

“There is no gainsaying everybody is peace-loving.

“Python Dance is for Nigeria safety. We are to complement the effort of police. To make sure everyone is comfortable.

“Also Crocodile Smile will soon come here in Ondo, it is our next target. Those who have nothing to hide have nothing to fear. Crocodile Smile is not to torment the citizens but to ensure their safety. We will remain awake while our people will sleep,” he said.

In his remarks at the occasion, Ondo state governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, commended the army and other security agencies in the state for the recent raid of the kidnappers’ dens and the arrest of some of the hoodlums in the forest in Akoko.